Business Attire

You want to be comfortable in what you are wearing so you can project confidence. Professional attire should be well-fitted to your body type - nothing too tight or too baggy. Below are some general tips when dressing for a professional or business event. Obviously, no rule is 100% and you should always rely on common sense about how you may be perceived at the event you are attending. Keep in mind that the legal profession is still a conservative field. We do not want you to feel like you are suppressing who you are; we want to set your expectations accordingly so you can feel well-prepared and succeed in your legal career goals.

Suit: A well-tailored suit in a conservative color is the most appropriate attire choice. Be sure that your suit and shirt are pressed or ironed. If you are wearing a skirt, make sure the length is both comfortable and appropriate while you are sitting down. Blouses or collared shirts should not have a low-cut neckline. If wearing a dress, make sure that you have a jacket on as well. Khaki pants and a blazer are not considered business attire.

Shoes: Dress shoes should be conservative in color and design. Heels should not be more than 2-3 inches high.

Accessories: If wearing a tie, muted colors in solid, stripes, or small patterns are preferred. Other accessories should be limited. Jewelry should be more conservatively styled as to not distract from you and what you have to say. Go light on or avoid perfume/cologne altogether. Always make sure your cell phone is silenced and out of sight! If you need a bag, consider a briefcase or conservatively styled purse. Never bring a backpack.

Hair: Your hairstyle should be well maintained and groomed. Facial hair should be trimmed and neatly groomed.

Employer Differences: The lawyers at the legal offices you may visit or interview at may be dressed in attire that is more casual than professional attire. When making a first impression, however, it is always better to err on the side of formality.

Regional Differences: Often professional attire has a different definition based on geography. The above guide is geared toward the Providence and Boston markets. If you are interviewing or networking in other parts of the country, it may be best to ask a local resource, such as an alum. An example of a regional difference is that in the southern United States, it is expected that those wearing skirts or dresses wear nylons.

Important Notes for Video Conferencing: Now that we live in a more virtual world, you will have to consider how your presence on video conveys your professionalism. In addition to following the guidelines above, you need to ensure that your virtual presentation is professional as well. Make sure that you are seated in a quiet area with strong wi-fi. Adjust your camera or prop up your laptop on books or other items so the camera is level with your eyes and you can maintain good posture while sitting. Do not video conference while sitting on your bed. It is also very important to think about what your background looks like. Consider how the light will come in during meetings and what others can see behind you. Consider using a neutral virtual background if you are concerned that your space might be distracting – the focus should be on you and not your surroundings. As much as possible, try to avoid any interruptions from people, pets, etc. and do not check your cell phone while on a video conference.

 

Close Course Type Descriptions

Course Types

We have classified RWU Law classes under the following headers. One of the following course types will be attached to each course which will allow students to narrow down their search while looking for classes.

Core Course

Students in the first and second year are required to take classes covering the following aspects of the law—contracts, torts, property, criminal law, civil procedure, and constitutional law, evidence, and professional responsibility.  Along with these aspects, the core curriculum will develop legal reasoning skills.

Elective

After finishing the core curriculum the remaining coursework toward the degree is completed through upper level elective courses.  Students can choose courses that peak their interests or courses that go along with the track they are following.

Seminar

Seminars are classes where teachers and small groups of students focus on a specific topic and the students complete a substantial research paper.

Clinics/Externships

Inhouse Clinics and Clinical Externships legal education is law school training in which students participate in client representation under the supervision of a practicing attorney or law professor.  RWU Law's Clinical Programs offer unique and effective learning opportunities and the opportunity for practical experience while still in law school.